Nutraceuticals and dietary supplements have gained attention for their potential role in managing various health conditions, including idiopathic scoliosis. While their impact on scoliosis management remains a topic of ongoing research, these supplements may offer benefits in supporting overall bone health, reducing inflammation, and improving muscle function.
However, before diving into their possible contributions, it’s essential to first understand what scoliosis is. By gaining a clear understanding of this condition, we can better explore how nutraceuticals and supplements might complement the treatment approaches.
What is scoliosis?
Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine alignment which may lead to pain, abnormal body alignment, breathing and digestion issues, hormonal imbalance, etc. Generally, only 20% of the scoliosis population is caused by neurological, syndromic disease.
What is the treatment for scoliosis?
Due to the limited knowledge on the aetiology of scoliosis, the treatment options are being limited. The recommended treatment for those below than 30 degrees of Cobb angle is to undergo Schroth (part of physical therapy), and the combination of Schroth and customised brace is suggested to those between 30 to 50 degrees. Those who are under severe cases (more than 50 degrees) are candidates for surgical treatment. Drugs and medications, like analgesics and anti-inflammatory, are being prescribed to reduce the pain and discomfort.
Any alternative therapies?
In order to reduce the dependence on synthetic drugs and cut off the cost of treatment, alternative treatments are being sought. Nutraceutical and dietary supplements are effective, safer and comparatively cheaper in the long term. Research shows that low levels in Vitamin D3, calcium and melatonin are commonly found in the idiopathic scoliosis population.
1. Vitamin D3
A fat-soluble vitamin essential for calcium and phosphorus absorption, aiding bone formation. It is commonly used to treat conditions like rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults.
- Role in Fibrosis Regulation and Postural Control:
- Research suggests Vitamin D3 plays a significant role in fibrosis regulation and improving postural balance.
- Studies show patients with Vitamin D deficiency who supplemented with Vitamin D experienced enhanced postural stability.
- Impact on Bone Health:
- Bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC) are influenced by Vitamin D, melatonin, oestrogen, and leptin levels.
- Deficiency in Vitamin D and Vitamin K2 reduces the carboxylation of osteocalcin, impairing calcium deposition in bones.
- Potential Link to Idiopathic Scoliosis:
Vitamin D deficiency, along with asymmetric loading of osteopenic vertebrae, may lead to vertebral wedging, potentially contributing to idiopathic scoliosis.
- Sources of Vitamin D:
Best obtained from fatty fish, fish liver oils, and appropriate sunlight exposure to prevent deficiencies.
2. Melatonin
A sleep-inducing hormone that regulates blood pressure and sleep-wake cycles. It plays a crucial role in bone metabolism by influencing the balance between bone formation and resorption.
- Impact on Bone Health:
- Promotes differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) into osteoblastic (bone-forming) cells.
- A reduction in peak melatonin levels at night may increase osteoclast activity, leading to bone loss, especially in the elderly.
- Optimal Melatonin Levels:
Studies suggest maintaining melatonin levels in the range of 8–16 pg/mL for optimal health.
- Natural Sources of Melatonin:
Found in foods such as milk, nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios), cherries, Goji berries, rice, and bananas.
3. Calcium
Research indicates that calcium levels are not directly linked to the progression of idiopathic scoliosis. However, calcium and Vitamin D are encouraged as daily supplements to support bone health.
- Role of Vitamin D in Bone Formation:
- Acts as a transporter for calcium absorption and bone mineralization, increasing bone density.
- Maintaining calcium levels within the average range can help prevent osteoporosis and reduce the risk of scoliosis progression.
- Recommended Calcium Intake:
Adolescents and adults need at least 1300 mg of calcium daily.
- Sources of Calcium:
Found in dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, as well as in leafy green vegetables and other calcium-rich foods.
In conclusion, while nutrition and dietary supplements may play a role in supporting individuals with idiopathic scoliosis, there’s still much we don’t fully understand. Certain nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and antioxidants might help bone health and potentially slow scoliosis progression. However, we need more research to confirm these benefits and understand how different diets and supplements affect scoliosis.
It’s essential to be cautious with supplements and seek guidance from healthcare professionals. While there’s promise in using nutrition to complement traditional treatments, we must remember that not all supplements are safe or effective for everyone.
Looking ahead, further studies, including clinical trials and long-term research, are needed to clarify the relationship between nutrition, supplements, and idiopathic scoliosis. By continuing to explore these connections, we can strive for better outcomes and improved quality of life for those living with scoliosis.
CARE IS OUR PROMISE
Prepared By
Your Physio Penang
Yi Wen